Tom Barnes

Tom Barnes is an economic sociologist, with a background in political economy and development studies. He is working in the Institute’s Cities and Successful Societies research stream, which looks at the role of civil society, government and business in the rejuvenation of urban regions undergoing industrial decline.

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This summary of the deliberations of the first National Manufacturing Summit provides an invaluable starting point for this year’s summit, and for the continuing policy dialogue that will be essential for making the most of Australia’s manufacturing potential.

The transition confronting workers, businesses and communities that have historically relied on Victoria’s automotive industry is highly significant. The decision by Australia’s three remaining carmakers—Ford Australia, General Motors Holden (GMH) and Toyota Australia—to wind down local car manufacturing operations will have a major impact on...

Victoria’s manufacturing sector has been in decline for several years. A range of workplace closures – not least the announcement by Australia’s last remaining carmakers that local motor vehicle manufacturing would be wound-down by 2016-17 – have had a significant impact on communities. Job losses...